1: This is my Panavise with its vacuum base and steel jaw
inserts.
1
Holding things securely is one
key to better modeling...
by Jack Burgess
A
s a prolific scratchbuilder, I tend to think of vises
as fairly basic modeling tools. However, I realize
many kit builders, whether they are building laser-
cut wood kits or resin freight cars, may think otherwise.
However, I believe many modelers will find times when a
good vise can be an asset.
I purchased my first modeling vise, a standard Panavise
model, back in the 1970s. I used this vise for several
decades, but wasn’t happy with the nylon jaws since they
didn’t seem to hold parts as securely as I needed. When I
set up my current workshop (
, I changed
to a Proxxon model FMS 75 Precision Vise. While my
Panavise was a standard “screw to the workbench” model,
this Proxxon model was fitted with a vacuum base which
requires it to be used on a smooth, non-porous surface.
VISES, CLAMPS, AND
ANGLE PLATES
The Tool Shed - 1
Both of these vises use a ball joint which allows the vise to
be rotated to nearly any angle. This is a valuable feature—if
I’m filing something to shape using the vise, I will rotate the
vise so the object is at right angles to my line-of-sight so I
can accurately judge my progress.
The Proxxon vise is less expensive than a comparable
Panavise model, and works reasonably well. However, I was
somewhat disappointed by the roughness of the ball joint.
Ultimately, I ended up purchasing another Panavise, but one
with a vacuum base. I also purchased a set of steel replace-
ment jaws which solved the problems I had with the earlier
nylon jaws. My current vise is shown in (1).
A vacuum base for a modeling vise is obviously a personal
choice. The advantage of a vacuum base is that it can be
moved to different places when needed, something you
can’t do if the vise is attached to the workbench. But a vise
with a vacuum base needs to be locked down by moving a
MRH-Mar 2014
